Travel grants are awarded to journalists who have a clear plan of what stories they want to cover. Discretionary grants have no specific criteria, but can be used for projects that are time-dependent.

The foundation will consider proposals that seek to increase New Zealanders' understanding of the Asia region and that promote themes of economic, political, social or strategic change in Asia - and the implications of these changes for New Zealand.

The grant can be used to cover most work-related costs, including return economy airfares, insurance, per diem allowances and visa and airport taxes.

The deadline to submit for travel grants is Oct. 2. There are no set deadlines for discretionary grants.